NC State Can’t Hold Onto Lead, Falls to UVA 6-8 in Game 1

NC State carried a 4-1 lead into the 6th inning, but UVA exploded for 7 runs in the 6th and 7th, propelled by 3 home runs, leading the Cavaliers to an 8-6 victory in Game 1 of a 3-game series in Raleigh.

Heading into the 6th inning, Junior Wolfpack pitcher Dominic Fritton looked like the stud he’s been thus far in 2025. Through 5 innings (79 pitches), Fritton had given up 1 earned run, striking out 3, while walking none. He was on his way to another win and another quality start. Unfortunately, Fritton was only able to record two outs in the 6th frame, allowing UVA to score 4 runs via 2 home runs on 37 pitches. Fritton now has a 4-3 record, with an ERA of 2.85, striking out 62 batters in 47.1 innings.

In the 7th, Freshman Anderson Nance had his worst outing of his collegiate career, giving up 3 earned runs in 0.1 innings. Nance faced 6 batters, allowing a home run, single, double, and 2 walks. Nance now has a 3.58 ERA.

Sophomore 1st Baseman Chris McHugh and Junior Outfielder Brayden Fraasman tried to create some 9th inning drama, hitting solo home runs in the final frame to cut the Cavaliers’ lead to 2, but it wasn’t enough. Only 3 NC State batters had 2+ hits last night, with McHugh and Fraasman being two of them. McHugh was 2-3 with a home run, 2 runs, a walk, and a HBP. Fraasman was 2-5 with a home run and 2 runs.

McHugh and Fraasman both have 6 home runs on the year, tied for the team lead.

Earlier in the game, the Wolfpack was fortunate to rack up 4 runs, with 3 of them being unearned due to UVA errors.

Freshman Center Fielder Ty Head did what he does best: get on base. Head was 3 for 3 (all singles) with 2 walks.

Game 2 between NC State and Virginia is set for 3 pm this afternoon in Raleigh.